Teen Behavioral Health
Is ADHD a Form of Neurodivergence?
A diagnosis of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) used to feel like something people would automatically judge, in large part due to not understanding the nature of the disorder. Is ADHD a form of neurodivergence and, if so, what does that mean? Hillcrest explores this subject to help people gain a better understanding of how there…
Read MoreMy Teen Won’t Get Out Of Bed: What To Do
Every parent of a teenager has experienced concern over how much or how little their child sleeps, especially when it comes to doing well in school and managing the rest of their lives. Sometimes, what started as something that happened now and then becomes habitual. Are you wondering why it seems like your teen won’t…
Read MoreTeen Cliques: The Impact on Teen Mental Health
One of the most common adolescent experiences is being part of a teen clique or trying to become a member of a specific one. It helps define the individual to themselves, their fellow students, school personnel, and parents. Being part of a clique or left out of one can cause changes in a person’s self-esteem…
Read MoreWhat Happens During Teenage Puberty?
When teen puberty begins, it impacts not only the person who is going through it but also their family. The mood swings a teenager goes through during this time of great hormonal change can affect their parents, siblings, and other family members. Both physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty last for years, but…
Read MoreWhat Are Signs of Autism in Teens?
The teenage years can be a time of incredible growth — emotionally, socially, and mentally. But for teens with autism, this stage can also bring unique challenges. While many people associate autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with childhood, some signs become more noticeable — or change — as a child enters adolescence. Recognizing these signs early…
Read MoreNormal Teenage Behavior vs Mental Health Disorder
Adolescence is a period of immense change. Between school pressures, shifting friendships, new independence, and rapid physical development, it’s no surprise that teenagers often experience mood swings and behavior shifts. Parents and caregivers may find themselves wondering: Is this just normal teenage behavior, or is it a sign of something more serious? This question can…
Read MoreWarning Signs of Depression in Teenagers
Being a teenager is already complicated. Between academic pressure, social dynamics, changing bodies, and the quest for identity, adolescence can feel like a roller coaster. But what happens when your teen’s “moodiness” starts to feel like something more serious? Teen depression is a real and growing concern. According to the CDC, rates of depressive episodes…
Read MoreDrug Street Slang Your Teenager May Use
As a parent, staying informed about your teen’s world can be a challenge—especially when it comes to issues surrounding substance use. One of the biggest obstacles is the ever-changing language teens use to describe drugs and drug-related behaviors. “Street slang” is often designed to be covert, allowing teens to talk about risky behavior right under…
Read MoreWhat Is Parentification? Signs of A Parentified Child
Most people associate childhood with play, learning, and carefree moments. But for some children, the responsibilities of adulthood come far too early. This phenomenon—known as parentification—is when a child is forced to take on roles or emotional burdens that should belong to the adults in their life. Parentification often goes unnoticed because it can appear…
Read MoreUnderstanding Kleptomania In Teens
Teen years are filled with emotional ups and downs, shifting identities, and challenges that sometimes manifest in unexpected behaviors. One behavior that can confuse and concern parents is stealing—especially when it seems compulsive or without reason. If your teen is consistently taking things they don’t need or even want, it might be more than just…
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